Lingerie

ZHILYOVA is a luxury lingerie brand that marries exquisite design with empowering comfort. Founded in 2014 by Valeria Zhilyova, the label quickly gained acclaim for its inclusivity – embracing women of all shapes and sizes – and for its bold, meticulously crafted pieces that inspire confidence. ZHILYOVA aims to “empower individuals with bold, beautiful, and meticulously crafted designs that inspire confidence and celebrate the essence of uniqueness and personal expression”. Each collection is crafted from the finest materials and showcases the brand’s dedication to quality. From delicate lace and whisper-soft mesh to smooth silks, ZHILYOVA lingerie feels as luxurious as it looks, making the wearer feel special, comfortable, and unapologetically confident. By focusing on innovative design and an inclusive size range, ZHILYOVA redefines lingerie as not just underwear, but a statement of freedom, femininity, and self-expression. When you slip into ZHILYOVA lingerie, you’re not just wearing elegant undergarments – you’re embracing a feeling of empowerment, sensuality, and everyday luxury.

Types of Lingerie

Lingerie isn’t one-size-fits-all – it spans a beautiful variety of styles and garments, each serving a unique purpose and mood. Whether you’re dressing for yourself in an intimate moment or styling an outfit for a night out, understanding the types of lingerie can help you choose pieces that make you look and feel your best. Here’s an elegant overview of the main types of lingerie and what makes each special:

Bras

Bras form the foundation of many lingerie wardrobes. They provide support, shape, and style – and come in numerous designs to suit different needs:

• Balconette Bra: A balconette (or “balcony”) bra has cups cut horizontally across the bust, lifting from below to create a gentle uplift without fully covering the breasts. With straps set wider apart and a lower cut, balconette bras offer a luxurious, subtly rounded shape and show off the upper bust, making them ideal under lower-cut necklines. This style feels romantic and flirty, often adorned with lace or embroidery for a vintage appeal.

• Plunge Bra: Plunge bras feature a deep V cut at the center, with angled cups and a low center gore (the piece between cups). This design reveals more cleavage and remains hidden under daringly low-cut outfits. Plunge bras still provide support (usually with underwire), but their shape allows you to confidently wear that date-night dress without the bra peeking out. They create a stunning neckline and a sense of allure, all while keeping you comfortably supported.

• Push-Up Bra: For times you want extra va-va-voom, push-up bras are the go-to. These bras use padding at the bottom or sides of the cups to lift the breasts upward and inward, enhancing cleavage. The effect is a fuller bustline and a dramatic silhouette – perfect for when you want to feel extra confident and sexy. Despite their striking effect, modern push-up bras in luxury lingerie lines are designed for comfort too, often with memory foam or gel cushions that mold to your shape.

• Other Bra Styles: Beyond the classics above, there are many other bra types to consider. Demi-cup bras (half-cups) offer a compromise between a balconette and a full coverage bra – they cover the breasts about halfway and create a naturally lifted shape. T-shirt bras prioritize a smooth, seamless look (usually with lightly padded, molded cups) so you can wear fitted tees or dresses without any lines showing. Strapless bras come with detachable or no straps, relying on a snug band and sometimes silicone grips – essential for off-shoulder outfits. And for pure comfort days, bralettes offer light support without underwires, often made of soft lace or cotton; they’re as pretty as they are comfortable, great for lounging or layering under loose tops. Whatever style you choose, a well-fitting bra enhances your posture and gives a confident foundation to any look.

Panties

Panties are the quintessential underwear – the bottoms that complete your lingerie set. They come in various cuts and coverage levels, each balancing comfort, coverage, and flirtiness in a different way:

• Bikini: The bikini cut is a classic and universally loved style. Bikini panties have a medium-rise waistband (usually sitting a few inches below the navel) and offer moderate back coverage. They strike the perfect balance between comfort and allure – revealing a bit but not too much. Low but not too low, a bikini brief’s silhouette is both cute and practical. This everyday style works under most clothing and is often made in breathable fabrics like cotton or microfiber for daily wear.

• Thong: Daring and minimal, thongs are designed to eliminate visible panty lines completely. A thong has a narrow strip of fabric at the back (instead of full coverage), which sits between the buttocks, thereby remaining invisible under even the slinkiest dresses or tight skirts. While thongs offer very little coverage, many find them surprisingly comfortable once you’re used to them – and undeniably sexy. They are perfect for form-fitting outfits or whenever you want to add an extra dose of confidence knowing there’s no chance of panty lines.

• Brief: Also known affectionately as the “granny panty” (though today’s briefs can be just as sexy as other cuts!), briefs have a higher rise and fuller back coverage. They sit at or just below the waist, comfortably enveloping the hips and backside. This style is all about comfort: a good pair of lace-trimmed briefs can feel like a hug to your curves. Briefs are great under skirts or dresses, especially the high-waisted kind, as they provide a smooth line and extra support for the tummy. Modern briefs can be elegant – think retro high-waist silhouettes with satin panels or sheer inserts for a glamorous pin-up vibe.

• Boyshort: Inspired by men’s boxer briefs, boyshorts are women’s panties with a straight-across waist and a low leg cut that extends a bit down the thigh. They provide full coverage for the rear and a bit of the upper thighs, making them wonderfully comfy and also playfully cheeky. Many men actually find boyshorts incredibly attractive – a survey found that about 40% of men preferred boyshort-style underwear on women because it looks comfy and frames the butt nicely. Boyshorts are perfect for lounging or sleeping, and they double as cute little shorts under summer dresses. Lace boyshorts in particular can strike a sensual-meets-cozy note, showing a peek of cheek with a soft, feminine touch.

• Others: There are many other panty styles – hipster (a mid-rise panty that sits on the hips with full back coverage), cheeky (as the name implies, these show a bit more of the butt for a flirty look, somewhere between a bikini and a thong), and tanga (minimal rear coverage like a thong but with a thicker side strap). Each style offers a different feel. The beauty of lingerie is that you can choose what style suits your outfit or your mood – from the no-nonsense comfort of cotton briefs to the barely-there thrill of a lacy thong.

Garter Belts

Nothing evokes vintage glamour quite like a garter belt. This elegant accessory – essentially a band worn around the waist or hips with attached garter straps that clip onto stockings – harks back to an era when stockings didn’t have elastic tops. History & Use: In the early 20th century, garter belts (and their predecessors, simple garters tied below the knee) were everyday necessities to hold up women’s stockings. Once pantyhose and elasticated stockings were invented, garter belts became less about function and more about fashion and allure. Today, wearing a garter belt is a way to channel old-world elegance and sensuality. They’re often worn with stockings (thigh-high nylons) for special occasions – brides, for example, often don a garter as part of the wedding tradition. Fashion Appeal: A garter belt immediately transforms a lingerie set into something truly captivating. The straps draw the eye down the length of the leg and highlight the curve of the hip. Many luxury garter belts are made of satin, lace, or even leather accents, combining with matching bras and panties for a complete look. Even if it’s your little secret under a dress, knowing you’re wearing a garter belt can make you feel powerful and glamorous. And when you choose to reveal it – let’s just say it’s a showstopper! Whether you love the retro pin-up aesthetic or just enjoy the ritual of dressing up, garter belts add a delightful touch of drama to lingerie.

Bodysuits

A bodysuit is a one-piece wonder in the lingerie world. Imagine a piece that combines a top and panties into a single, streamlined garment – that’s the bodysuit. It often snaps at the crotch (for convenience), but otherwise hugs the torso like a second skin. Styling & Versatility: Bodysuits are incredibly versatile. A lacy or sheer lingerie bodysuit is sexy for the bedroom, offering a head-to-toe coordinated allure. At the same time, many bodysuits double as outerwear – you can pair a chic bodysuit with jeans, a high-waisted skirt, or a blazer to create a daring evening outfit. Because it stays tucked (no loose hems to untuck), a bodysuit gives you a seamless, smooth look. In fact, one of the purposes of a bodysuit is to provide support and a seamless “tucked-in” appearance so you can style it with comfort and ease. Shaping Benefits: Beyond style, bodysuits can also have a gentle shaping effect. The tension from shoulders to crotch provides a light smoothing pressure, hugging your curves and offering a bit of tummy control. Some bodysuits are designed with built-in underwire cups or extra firm panels to function similarly to shapewear, enhancing your figure under clothes. Others are stretchy and lightweight, meant more for fashion than function. From high-neck sleeved bodysuits (great as a layering piece in fall/winter) to barely-there mesh bodysuits with plunging necklines, there’s a bodysuit for every occasion. It’s the piece of lingerie that effortlessly crosses into ready-to-wear territory – so you can feel fabulously feminine both in and out of the bedroom.

Corsets

Corsets are the epitome of figure-enhancing lingerie. Historically, corsets (also called stays) were structured undergarments used from the 17th to early 20th century to shape a woman’s torso – they cinched the waist, supported the bust, and created that coveted hourglass figure. Figure Benefits: A corset uses boning (once whalebone or steel, now often steel or plastic) and laces to cinch the waist and emphasize the bust and hips, instantly giving an hourglass silhouette. It’s amazing how putting on a corset can make you feel – many wearers report a sense of poise and confidence as the corset gently encourages good posture (shoulders back, chest open). It’s like stepping into another era of elegance. Fashion & Historical Value: While we no longer wear corsets as everyday necessity, they have never truly gone out of style. Modern corsets and bustiers (a closely related item – usually a bit shorter and focused on bust lift) are often worn as statement lingerie pieces or even as outerwear for a bold look. Think of a satin corset top paired with a blazer, or a lace-up corset peeking out from under a sheer blouse – it’s a fusion of historical romance and contemporary fashion. Designers also play with corset elements in dresses and tops (the “corset-style” look). In bridal lingerie, a white lace corset can be both traditional and sultry. And in the lingerie drawer, a corset set with garters, stockings, and a matching thong is the ultimate bombshell ensemble. Not to mention, corsets have a rich history that fascinates many – they represent femininity’s changing role through time. Today’s corsets are generally more comfortable than their antique counterparts, focusing on empowerment and costume rather than compulsory waist-training. Whether you wear one to cinch your waist a couple of inches or simply as a decorative piece, a corset brings drama, posture, and irresistible confidence.

Robes

A robe is the finishing touch to a lingerie wardrobe – an elegant cover-up that adds a layer of mystery and comfort. Lingerie robes (sometimes called peignoirs when they’re extra fancy and long) are lightweight gowns worn over your bra and panties, nightie, or bodysuit. They tie at the waist with a sash. Materials & Feel: Robes often come in flowing, sumptuous fabrics. Silk and satin robes are popular for that rich, smooth feel on the skin – you’ll feel like a Hollywood starlet lounging in one. Lace robes (or robes with lace trims) add a romantic, see-through touch that lets hints of your lingerie show beneath. Sheer chiffon or mesh robes are playful and airy, perfect for a sensual surprise. And there are also cozy cotton or modal robes which are great for everyday morning routines. Layering & Elegance: A robe’s function is twofold – practical and aesthetic. Practically, it’s great for covering up if you’re not fully dressed (maybe you’re doing your hair and makeup before an event, or enjoying breakfast in your nightwear). It gives you modesty with the option of a grand reveal. Aesthetically, a robe adds dramatic flair to your lingerie. Imagine a long, trailing satin robe over a delicate set – it creates a silhouette of luxury. Many lingerie enthusiasts love the ritual of slipping on a robe – it’s like wrapping yourself in confidence. For intimate moments, letting a robe slide off your shoulders is an undeniably cinematic, sensual move. Even for yourself on a quiet evening, wearing a beautiful robe can make a simple act like reading a book feel like a spa experience. It’s the epitome of lounging in style. From short kimono-style wraps to floor-length sheer gowns, robes let you swathe yourself in elegance and comfort at the same time.

Popular Lingerie Fabrics

The allure of lingerie isn’t just in its shapes and styles – it’s also in the sensory experience of its fabrics. High-quality lingerie uses materials that feel great on the skin and create a gorgeous visual effect. Here are some of the most popular lingerie fabrics and what makes each special:

• Lace: Lace is perhaps the most iconic lingerie fabric. It’s beloved for its delicate, floral or geometric patterns and the way it drapes the body with a hint of transparency. Good lace is soft to the touch (no one likes itchy lace!). It adds a romantic, feminine texture to bras, panties, and bodysuits. Because lace is often sheer with intricate designs, it shows peeks of skin in an artful, elegant way. From French Chantilly lace to stretchy modern laces, this fabric balances beauty and breathability. It’s not very supportive on its own, but often layered over sturdier fabrics or mesh for structure. Visually, lace embodies luxury and seduction, making any piece feel a bit more special.

• Silk: True silk is a treasure in lingerie. This natural fiber (made from silkworm cocoons) has a smoothness and a subtle sheen that screams luxury. Silk feels cool to the touch initially, then warms with your body – it’s highly breathable and thermoregulating, meaning it’s great in both summer and winter. Silk lingerie (like silk camisoles, slips, or panties) glides over your skin like water. The drape of silk is fluid and elegant; it moves with you. Because silk is pricey, silk lingerie is often an indulgence – but one that can be worth it for the sensual experience. It’s also quite strong for its weight, but it needs gentle care (usually hand-wash or dry-clean). When you wear a silk nightgown or tap pants, you can’t help but feel like royalty.

• Satin: Satin refers to a type of smooth, lustrous weave, and it can be made from silk or synthetic fibers (like polyester). Satin has a glossy front and a dull back. Silk satin is the crème de la crème – often used in luxury pieces for that high shine and softness. Polyester satin is more affordable but still gives a similar aesthetic with a bit less breathability. Satin is a popular choice for robes, nightgowns, and bra cups because of its shiny, elegant look. It catches the light beautifully. The texture is slick and cool, which many find sexy. Sliding into satin sheets while wearing a satin slip – now that’s a sensory dream! Satin doesn’t have much stretch, so it’s often cut on the bias (diagonally) in garments to give a little natural give and a slinky fit. A satin chemise or pair of satin pajamas instantly reads as classic, glamorous lingerie.

• Mesh (Tulle): Mesh is a sheer, net-like fabric that adds modern edge to lingerie. It can range from very fine and delicate (soft tulle) to strong and stretchy (power mesh). Mesh is often used in paneling – for example, the sides of a bra or the back of a panty might be sheer mesh to add visual interest and ventilation. Because of its transparency, mesh gives a peekaboo effect, similar to lace but with a contemporary, minimalist vibe. Black mesh, for instance, can look edgy and bold, while a nude mesh disappears on the skin creating illusions of cut-outs or floating lace appliqués. Mesh is also lightweight and breathable – great for summer lingerie. In high-end designs, you’ll often see illusion details where mesh holds together embroidered motifs, giving the appearance of lace floating on skin. It’s both functional (adds stretch and support when layered) and aesthetic (sensual and airy).

• Cotton: Cotton might sound basic compared to lace and silk, but it remains one of the best fabrics for underwear – especially for everyday wear and for health. Cotton is a natural fiber that is soft, breathable, and absorbent. It’s gentle on the skin, which is important for sensitive areas. Many women’s panties have a cotton gusset (crotch lining) even if the rest is lace, because cotton keeps things fresh and dry. A pair of cotton briefs or a simple cotton bralette can be incredibly comfortable for all-day wear. And cotton doesn’t have to be plain – it can be blended with stretch (like a touch of spandex) for a snug fit, and can come in cute prints or lacy trims. For those with sensitive skin or anyone prioritizing comfort and hygiene, cotton is number one. Plus, modern organic cotton lingerie can be surprisingly stylish in its simplicity.

• Microfiber & Modal: Modern lingerie often uses high-tech microfibers – very fine fibers (usually polyester or polyamide blends) that create a fabric which is extremely smooth, lightly stretchy, and often nearly invisible under clothing. Microfiber panties and bras have become popular for the “no-show” effect: they can be laser-cut with bonded seams, meaning no bulky edges to dig in. The texture is usually cool, suede-like or silky, and very gentle on the skin. Microfiber also wicks moisture well, keeping you comfortable. Modal is a type of rayon made from beech tree fibers, and it’s beloved in underwear for being ultra-soft and breathable, like a upgraded form of cotton (with great moisture-wicking). A microfiber T-shirt bra in a nude tone, for example, is a hero for tight tops – it just disappears and feels like air. These fabrics might not sound as dreamy as silk or lace, but they serve an important role: they combine comfort, function, and a touch of luxury (they often feel cool and soft like a second skin). Many everyday lingerie pieces use a blend – e.g., lace for looks and microfiber for comfort and fit.

Each of these fabrics contributes to the tapestry of lingerie. Often, you’ll find them combined – a bra may have a silk satin cup with lace overlay, or a panty might be mostly microfiber with a panel of lace for flair. By knowing your fabrics, you can choose lingerie that not only looks stunning but also feels divine and serves the right purpose (be it staying cool in summer or providing smooth support under a gown). The key is that luxury lingerie appeals to multiple senses: the sight of how it shimmers or showcases your body, and the touch of how it feels against your skin. When you find the right combination – say, a lace bra with a cotton lining, or a mesh bodysuit with satin trims – it’s truly the best of all worlds.

Frequently Asked Questions about Women’s Underwear

When it comes to women’s underwear and lingerie, it’s natural to have questions. From terminology to fabric choices and care, here are answers to some common questions – answered in an elegant, straightforward way:

Which is correct: underwear or lingerie?
Both terms are “correct,” but they mean slightly different things. Underwear is a broad term for any garments worn under your clothes – this includes bras, panties, men’s briefs, undershirts, etc. Lingerie, on the other hand, refers specifically to women’s intimate apparel, and usually carries a connotation of something a bit luxurious or designed to be visually appealing. In essence, all lingerie is underwear, but not all underwear is lingerie. If you’re talking about a plain cotton bra you wear for function, “underwear” might be the word that comes to mind. But that lacy corset or silk chemise? That’s lingerie. Historically, underwear implies functionality and basic necessity, whereas lingerie evokes beauty, elegance, and sometimes sensuality. In modern usage, the lines blur – many everyday bras and panties for women are also pretty enough to be called lingerie. So you can use either term, but if you want to emphasize the fashionable or romantic aspect, “lingerie” is the word to choose.

What fabric is used to make underwear?
Underwear can be made from a wide range of fabrics, each chosen for a particular reason. Common materials include:

• Cotton: favored for everyday panties because it’s soft and breathable (great for health).

• Silk: used in high-end lingerie for its smoothness and luxury feel.

• Satin (silk or polyester): gives a shiny, sleek look for bras, panties, and slips.

• Lace: often layered over bras and panties for beauty; usually needs a backing fabric for strength.

• Microfiber (Nylon/Polyamide blends): very popular for modern underwear – it’s smooth, lightweight, and can be made seamless.

• Mesh/Tulle: used for decorative panels or entire pieces when a sheer look is desired.

• Modal or Bamboo: increasingly used in panties – these semi-synthetic natural fibers are extremely soft and breathable (like an upgraded cotton).

• Polyester/Spandex blends: common in bras and stretchy panties for a good fit and durability (often with a cotton gusset for comfort).

In summary, underwear isn’t just one fabric – it’s often a combination. A single pair of panties might have a cotton lining, a lace front, and a microfiber back. What’s important is the feel and function: fabrics touching the intimate areas tend to be natural (cotton or modal) for comfort, while outer parts can be lacy, satiny, or stretchy to provide the desired look and fit.

How often should you change your underwear?
Hygiene and comfort-wise, it’s best to change your underwear every day at a minimum. Fresh underwear daily keeps you clean, dry, and helps prevent any bacterial or yeast overgrowth. In fact, health experts suggest one pair, one day – and even more than once a day if you sweat a lot or have discharge. Think of it like this: you change your socks daily, and the same goes for panties. If you worked out and got sweaty, changing into a fresh pair after showering is a good idea. Some sources note that while you could wear the same underwear two days in a row if it’s completely clean and dry, studies have found even “clean” underwear can harbor trace fecal bacteria, so daily change is a smart habit. And of course, always put on a clean pair after washing yourself. Not only is it healthier, but slipping into a fresh, clean pair of underwear just feels nice – a little everyday luxury for yourself.

What is women’s underwear called?
Women’s underwear can be referred to by several names, depending on which specific garment you mean:

• The bottom piece is commonly called panties (in the US) or knickers (in the UK). These terms cover everything from thongs to briefs – basically any style of women’s underpants.

• The top undergarment for women is a bra (short for brassiere).

• The term lingerie encompasses all women’s undergarments, especially the more decorative or set-like pieces. Lingerie can include bras, panties, as well as items like corsets, garter belts, stockings, camisoles, teddies, etc.

• Colloquially, some people just say “underwear” for women’s undergarments too (e.g., “I need to buy new underwear” can mean bras and/or panties).

• If you’re talking about specific pieces: briefs, thong, bikini, etc. are all types of women’s underwear (panties). A slip refers to an underdress garment, usually worn under dresses or as nightwear. Camisole is a lightweight top (often with spaghetti straps) that can be an undergarment or sleepwear.

• In sum, women’s underwear doesn’t have one single name – it’s a category of items. But “panties” is the most direct term for the underpants, and “lingerie” is the go-to word when you’re referring to women’s intimate wear in general, especially if it’s lacy, silky, or meant to be pretty.

What is considered underwear?
“Underwear” refers to any garment worn beneath your outer clothing, typically in direct contact with the skin. The primary purpose of underwear is to provide comfort, support, coverage, and maintain hygiene by acting as a barrier between your body and your clothes. For women, underwear includes items like:

• Panties/Knickers: All styles of underpants (thong, brief, bikini, boyshort, etc.).

• Bras: Any kind of brassiere, from everyday T-shirt bras to fancy lace bralettes.

• Undershirts/Camisoles/Slips: Thin shirts or dress-like pieces worn under tops or dresses, often for an extra layer or smooth look.

• Shapewear: Garments like slimming shorts, bodysuits, or girdles that go under clothes to smooth or shape the figure.

• Hosiery as underwear: Stockings, pantyhose, tights – these can be considered underwear since they’re worn under clothing (though they’re often visible on the legs, they function as underlayers).

• Men’s underwear (for context) includes briefs, boxers, boxer-briefs, etc., which serve the same “under layer” function.

In short, if you wear it under your clothes and it’s not meant to be seen by everyone (at least not as part of your outer outfit), it’s probably underwear. This means bras and panties are definitely underwear, but items like swimsuits or crop tops are not (since those are worn as outer garments, even though they resemble underwear). One thing to note: in everyday speech, “underwear” often specifically means panties for women or briefs for men (e.g., “pack enough underwear for the trip”). But in definition, it’s the whole category of undergarments.

What material is best for underwear?
The best material for underwear largely depends on the context – are we talking daily wear for health, or a special occasion for looks? Generally, for everyday women’s panties, cotton is king. Cotton is often recommended by gynecologists and health experts as the best fabric for underwear because it’s natural, breathable, and absorbent. It allows air circulation and reduces moisture, which helps prevent irritation and infections. If not all-cotton, at least a cotton crotch lining (gusset) is highly advised in women’s panties for hygiene. However, cotton isn’t the only good material:

• Modal or Bamboo viscose: These are superb for everyday underwear too. They’re even softer than cotton, with great breathability. Many consider modal the next best (or even better) thing to cotton for comfort.

• Silk: Silk is excellent in terms of being a natural protein fiber that’s breathable and gentle. Some women love silk underwear for its luxurious feel. It’s also naturally antimicrobial to an extent. The downside is care (silk usually isn’t as easy to throw in the wash frequently) and cost.

• Microfiber (Nylon/Spandex blends): While synthetic, many modern panties use microfiber because it’s very smooth, lightweight, and wicks moisture. It’s not as breathable as cotton, but if it’s a high-quality technical fabric, it can be pretty comfortable and is great for no-show styles. Just ensure there’s a cotton or moisture-wicking gusset.

• Lace and Mesh: As materials against the skin, these are more about looks than practicality. They’re fine for occasional wear or shorter durations, but a full day in non-lined lace underwear might irritate some people. Often, lace undies have cotton in the crucial areas.

In summary, if we’re talking health and comfort: cotton (or natural fibers like silk, bamboo, modal) are best for underwear. They breathe and keep you comfortable. If we’re talking appearance: satin, lace, etc., can be “best” for making you feel gorgeous – but even then, a piece that combines beauty and function (like a lace panty with cotton lining) is ideal. Many women strike a balance: cotton panties for daily use, and fancier fabrics for special moments. Always listen to your body – if a fabric irritates you, switch it out. The good news is, you can have both: gorgeous lingerie made with quality fabrics that also respect your skin.

What is included in underwear?
This question is a bit similar to “What is considered underwear,” and the answer is: Underwear includes any and all types of undergarments. If you buy a set of women’s underwear, it typically includes a bra and a matching panty (that’s often called a lingerie set). When brands sell “underwear,” they might be referring to just panties, or bras, or both – context matters. Generally, though, the category of underwear includes:

• All styles of panties (thong, bikini, brief, boyshort, etc.).

• All styles of bras (push-up, balconette, sports bra, etc. – yes, a sports bra is technically underwear since it’s worn under clothes).

• Socks and hosiery can be considered underwear (since socks are under shoes and pants, and hosiery under dresses/skirts or pants).

• Undershirts/tanks for layering under outfits.

• Thermal underwear (like long johns, which are base-layer clothing).

• Shapewear and slips.

If the question is asking “what comes with underwear when you buy it,” like a set: some lingerie sets include multiple pieces (e.g., a corset might come with a matching thong and garters included). But usually, underwear is sold per piece or as a bra-panty set. There isn’t some hidden item that “comes with” underwear by default – except maybe the little hygiene liner strip in new panties! In essence, underwear as a realm includes everything that goes under your clothes. For women, the basics included are bras and panties.

How do you return underwear?
Returning underwear can be tricky due to hygiene considerations. Generally, most retailers do not accept returns on worn or opened underwear for health and safety reasons. Think about it – intimate items touch the body in delicate areas, so stores are careful about reselling those. However, there are some nuances:

• Bras: Many lingerie stores will allow returns or exchanges of bras if they don’t fit, as long as tags are still on and they’re in like-new condition (often, you’re encouraged to just try it on over clean skin briefly to check fit). Bras are a bit like other clothing in that sense.

• Panties: Most places have a no-return or exchange policy on panties (knickers) if the package is opened or the hygiene seal is removed. If you buy a multi-pack of underwear and open it, you usually can’t return it. If a single panty has a protective strip, once that’s removed or the panty tried on, it’s typically not returnable. Some higher-end boutiques might allow exchange for a different size if it was clearly never worn and tags/liners are intact, but it’s case by case.

• Online Purchases: If you buy underwear online, check the return policy carefully before purchasing. Many online retailers will allow bra returns, and some may allow panty returns if they were tried on over your own clean underwear and are returned within a very short window with all tags and liners in place. Due to the difficulty of sizing online, a few companies have lenient policies – but expect that most will not take back panties for refund.

• Swimwear (just for comparison): Like underwear, swimwear bottoms have hygiene liners and similar rules – no returns once worn or liner removed.

• What to do: To return underwear, make sure it’s unworn (beyond a quick try-on), unstained, with original tags and packaging. Then contact the store’s customer service or follow their return instructions. If the underwear came in a sealed package, it usually must remain sealed. Always keep your receipts and do it within the allowed time frame.

In summary, because of hygiene policies, you typically can’t return underwear once it’s been worn or tried on intimately. If you accidentally bought the wrong size, do not remove any tags or liners, and reach out to the store immediately to see if they’ll accept a return or exchange. And as a friendly tip: for bras, get fitted or check sizing guides (like ZHILYOVA’s own size guide) to increase the chances of a perfect fit so you won’t need to return. For panties, consider buying one to test a new style/size from a brand before buying multiples. And if you absolutely cannot return something, perhaps consider if you can donate it (only if completely new) or adjust it. But hopefully, with careful selection, returns won’t be necessary and you’ll love what you’ve chosen!

What kind of underwear do men like?
Ah, the age-old curiosity! If you’re wondering what styles of women’s underwear men tend to find attractive – the answer will, of course, vary by individual. Every man has his own taste, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, surveys and anecdotes give some insight (and it might surprise you):

• A survey by Women’s Health found that a large percentage of men (around 40%) actually preferred boyshorts on women. Why? Many commented that a woman looks comfortable and confident in them, and comfort = sexy. Plus, boyshorts frame the derriére in a way that’s quite appealing.

• The next popular style in that survey was the thong (around 34% of men’s votes). Thongs are a more expected “sexy” choice – they leave little to the imagination and highlight the body boldly.

• Traditional bikini-cut panties and lace briefs can also be popular – especially if they complement the woman’s body shape well. A pretty bikini panty that’s not too granny-ish but also not overtly skimpy hits a sweet spot for many.

• Interestingly, “granny panties” (full coverage briefs) scored very low in that survey (only ~1%) – which is not shocking. However, keep in mind that survey was asking men to choose. In real life, if a man loves you, he’s not going to be too upset about what underwear you have on in the moment 😉.

• Matching sets are often mentioned as universally attractive. There’s something about a coordinated bra and panty set (whether lace, satin, etc.) that many men find very enticing – it shows effort and that lingerie can be an ensemble.

• Colors: Black and red are frequently cited as sexy colors for lingerie (they’re classic for a reason). But again, this is individual – some might love a simple white cotton look as it feels fresh and natural, others might go wild for neon or leopard print.

The big takeaway is: confidence is key. Men tend to find the confidence with which you wear your underwear sexiest of all. If you feel amazing in a certain piece, that energy will be noticed. As one man famously put it, lingerie is like icing on the cake – it’s a wonderful bonus, but it’s the woman (the cake) that truly matters. So, whether it’s a lacy thong or comfy boyshorts, choose underwear that makes you feel alluring and comfortable. Chances are, that confidence and joy will be what men (and, more importantly, you yourself) will like the most.